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Microsoft’s Next U-Turn - Self-Published Games on Xbox One

Fri, 07/26/2013 - 02:07 -- RLWaterman

It’s time for yet another U-turn with regard to the Xbox One. Just a few weeks ago we were hearing of the disappointment of small game developers who would be unable to publish on the Xbox due to Microsoft’s decision that every game launched on its platform would need an official and recognized publisher. In a complete turnaround, Microsoft has now said that not only is a publisher unnecessary, but that every Xbox One console can be used for game development and game debugging (meaning potential early access to titles still in development for Beta testing).

In the words of Xbox VP Mark Whiten:

"Our vision is that every person can be a creator. That every Xbox One can be used for development. That every game and experience can take advantage of all of the features of Xbox One and Xbox LIVE. This means self-publishing. This means Kinect, the cloud, achievements. This means great discoverability on Xbox LIVE."

This could be another feather in the cap of the Xbox One, although initial responses from existing indie developers have been guarded. Mark Whiten mentioned that more details would be available at GamesCom in August this year, so until the ins and outs of this new information are detailed some developers are bound to remain skeptical. GamesCom in Cologne, Germany has grown into a big convention and it could well be the moment when we receive official launch dates for the next generation consoles.

Whether or not every gamer could become a game developer using the Xbox One remains to be seen, but knowing that indie games will make it onto this console after all is a relief. Big game releases will undoubtedly remain the most popular sellers on the Xbox, but some of the smaller, user developed titles can also offer some incredible, and potentially more affordable, gaming experiences.